How Long to Spend in Zhangjiajie?
Zhangjiajie, a region in northern Hunan, China, is home to stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic sandstone pillars of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The area boasts a wealth of attractions, from breathtaking mountain vistas and glass bridges to charming villages and cultural experiences. With so much to see and do, how long should you spend in Zhangjiajie?
We Recommend 3 to 4 Days in Zhangjiajie
There is so much to do in Zhangjiajie that we recommend spending 3 or 4 days exploring the region. This duration allows ample time to visit the main attractions at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed. Here's a possible itinerary:
| Day | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Zhangjiajie National Forest Park | Explore Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, the inspiration for the Hallelujah Mountains in Avatar, hike to the First Bridge Under Heaven, and enjoy breathtaking views from the platform at Enchanting Terrace. |
| Day 2 | Tianzi Mountain & Glass Bridge | Take a cable car up Tianzi Mountain for panoramic views, experience the thrill of walking on the world's longest and highest glass bridge, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Ten-Mile Natural Gallery. |
| Day 3 | Baofeng Lake & Huangshi Village | Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the serene Baofeng Lake, visit the charming village of Baofeng, and take a cable car up to Huangshi Village for stunning views of the surrounding peaks. |
| Day 4 (Optional) | Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon & Glass Bridge | Walk across another breathtaking glass bridge, hike through the scenic canyon, and enjoy the impressive views of waterfalls and cliffs. |
Combining Zhangjiajie with Other Hunan Destinations
If you have a week to spend in Hunan province, we recommend combining your Zhangjiajie trip with visits to other remarkable destinations:
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Fenghuang Ancient Town (1 day): This well-preserved ancient town boasts beautiful architecture, rich history, and charming riverside atmosphere. Spending a night in Fenghuang is highly recommended to soak in its magical ambiance.
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Changsha (2 days): As the capital of Hunan, Changsha offers a vibrant mix of modern city life and historical sites. Visit the fascinating Hunan Provincial Museum, explore the historical Yuelu Academy, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Taiping Street. Staying overnight in Changsha is ideal for experiencing its nightlife and culinary delights.
Example Itinerary for a Week in Hunan:
- Day 1-4: Zhangjiajie (as described above)
- Day 4: Travel from Zhangjiajie to Fenghuang (approximately 5 hours by bus) and spend the evening exploring the ancient town.
- Day 5: Continue exploring Fenghuang in the morning and travel to Changsha in the afternoon (approximately 4 hours by high-speed train).
- Day 6-7: Discover the highlights of Changsha and depart.
FAQs
How do I get to Zhangjiajie?
Zhangjiajie is well-connected by air and rail. Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (Wulingyuan Airport) receives flights from major cities in China. You can also reach Zhangjiajie by high-speed train from cities like Changsha, Guangzhou, and Beijing.
What is the best time to visit Zhangjiajie?
The best time to visit Zhangjiajie is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and colorful scenery. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (November-March) can be cold with occasional snowfall.
Is it difficult to get around Zhangjiajie?
Getting around Zhangjiajie is relatively easy. There are regular buses connecting the different scenic areas, and taxis are readily available. Cable cars and the Bailong Elevator are popular options for reaching higher elevations.